Through April 13, Save $5 off the Registration Fee for the April 19 Earth Day 5K Run/Walk

Bee the change! The Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk and River Cleanup is Saturday, April 19 at Boom Island Park, located in the only National Park offering scenic views of the Mississippi River! 

Before and after the 5K, learn about efforts to protect pollinators and their habitat with Earth Day festivities for the whole family. This is a family-friendly event, dogs are welcome and costumes are encouraged (prizes for the best!). Swarms encouraged - amass a team! Post-race, take part in an organized river cleanup. 

Avoid the lines on race day - pick up your race bib and swag Friday, April 18, 3-6pm at Mill City Running, 411 E Hennepin Ave. (Bonus - show your race bib and receive 20% off Mill City Running purchases Friday, April 18 - Sunday, April 20!)

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Please help save our bees and their habitat by participating!

Pangea World Theater presents Rhinoceros at Southern Theater, April 4-19

Pangea World Theater is pleased to present Rhinoceros, by Eugène Ionesco, at The Southern Theater, April 4-19. Rhinoceros combines whimsical humor with unsettling tragedy to question human nature at the most fundamental level.

Over the course of three acts, the inhabitants of a small town turn into rhinoceroses; ultimately the only human who does not succumb to this mass metamorphosis is the central character, Berenger, a flustered figure who is initially criticized in the play for his drinking, tardiness, and slovenly lifestyle and then, later, for his increasing paranoia and obsession with the rhinoceroses.

Come experience how Rhinoceros dives into themes of conformity, fascism, social responsibility, mob mentality, philosophy, and morality.

“Ionesco is an iconic voice in the canons of literature. We are privileged to journey with this brilliant mind during this time. Ever so often, humanity is called upon to pause, analyze, embody and be in action. Rhinoceros, a provocative journey, asks us searing questions about our own humanity and integrity,” says Director Dipankar Mukherjee.

The Rhinoceros ensemble includes Ernest Briggs, Tyler Stamm, Bruce Abes, Nate Kay, Kirby Bennet, Sayli Khadilkar, Mallory K. Lewis, Julie Anne Nevill, Sudarsna Mukund, and Shruti Priti Ramesh. Director Dipankar Mukherjee’s artistic team features Assistant Director Sir Curtis Kirby III, lighting design by Brackley Frayer, set design by Orin Herfindal, costume design by Abigail Vaughan, sound design by Diego Vasquez Rios, music by Vladimir Garrido, and stage management by Suzanne Victoria Cross.

Tickets to Rhinoceros are $20 – 50 (sliding scale), student tickets are $15. They can be reserved at https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/rhinoceros

The Mill Yard at Stonebridge Announces Spring Show, Opening April 13

Opening Reception Sunday, April 13, 4:00 - 6:00PM

Stonebridge Lofts, 1120 S 2nd Street

The Mill City. Residents celebrate our area’s industrial heritage of the mighty Mississippi River and the mills. Today, what we see are the most recognizable Minneapolis landmarks. However, this is only part of the story. Rail lines were key to Minneapolis’ growth, and were particularly integral to the Mill District, bringing in wheat and timber and shipping out flour and lumber. We also honor the history of the mills, the reason for the rail yard’s existence. The Mill Yard aims to be both a gathering place for art and artists and a conduit by which art can be shared with and disseminated into the wider community. 

Join the The Mill Yard in welcoming these artists to their Spring Show. Purchase original art, meet neighbors and enjoy complimentary beverages. The Brick Oven Bus Pizza Food Truck will be on site with pizzas for purchase. 

Local artists featured at this show:

The Other Harbor LightTom Dimock  Growing up, Tom Dimock lived across the US while his father was a dentist in the Navy. His mother was an artist and besides her influence his father’s cousin is a famous Seattle artist. After Tom served on the USS Henry B. Wilson he earned his BFA from the Art Center in Pasadena, California. He worked as a freelance illustrator while pursuing fine art, later earning an MFA from the University of Minnesota. An award-winning Minneapolis artist with international acclaim, he continues his career as a plein air impressionist, painting across the U.S. and Europe.

Superior Wave

Grist of the PastGreg Lecker  Greg Lecker is a dedicated visual artist and naturalist. Greg works from direct observation as well as from writing and photographic references to study the natural world. Working primarily in oil, his canvases illuminate with energy and color, motion and emotion through brushstrokes, color and light. “When a field painting session especially interests me; I explore the subject in the studio. I use my artistic practice as a way to understand the natural world and our connection to it.” Through multiple residencies Greg has studied the Mississippi & St. Croix Rivers and the Arctic Ocean (Svalbard, Norway). Greg’s work is also on view at the Northrup King Building #183.

Moon BowlJeanne Lukas  Jeanne Lukas is a ceramic sculptor. During her career in marketing she found clay her creative passion. Jeanne’s journey began at the University of Minnesota then continued at the Northern Clay Center in Minneapolis, Craft Alliance in St. Louis, and Anderson Ranch in Colorado. She is currently working full-time in her Northrup King studio. Jeanne’s pieces are hand-built, carved and textured in unique designs.  Her pieces range from functional to decorative.

Green Pitcher and BreadDan Petrov  Born in Serbia, Dan Petrov spent most of his University summers in northern Italy studying painting techniques of Renaissance and contemporary painters. After University his museum studies extended to France, England and Holland where he copied old masters. Combining Indirect and Direct Painting Methods Dan arrived at the techniques he uses today.  His studies of visual art continued in Canada from 1992 to 2006 when he relocated his studio to Minneapolis. From 2006 to 2010 Dan was the part of The Atelier comprehensive studio art program. “During the last four years I have been painting narrative portraits that treat different aspects of human condition. These works go beyond the model and likeness to deliver more universal aspects of individual or group, relations to tradition and culture and some stories that are fundamentally relevant for all of us.”

Through the RiverMary Sannerud  Mary Sannerud is a felt-maker. She creates home textiles through the process of wet-felting. She came to this work by great surprise, having grown up never using her hands to make beauty. She was taught traditional felt rug making in the U.S. by a family of felt-makers from Kyrgyzstan, then lived and worked with her mentors in  Kyrgyz Republic for 3 months. This time of learning deeply rooted her work and gave her a broader understanding of the importance of felt in the home. She is constantly creating from her love of the land where she lives on the North Shore of MN.

Mixed sapphire disc pendantAnne Waddell, Jewelry  Anne has always been an artist. After graduating with a BFA in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design she enjoyed a successful career selling high-end jewelry, always creating her own in a garage studio. For over five years Anne has focused exclusively on her own brand, drawing inspiration from her life experiences and nature. She works with gold, silver and precious and semi-precious gemstones. She has numerous successful collections and curated partnerships which allowed her to open a new studio in Deephaven, MN.

MORE INFO/STAY CONNECTED: 

TheMillYard.Stonebridge@gmail.com,  Website, Facebook, Instagram

Bridge 9 Improvement Project Update

Bridge No. 9 was constructed in 1922 by the Northern Pacific Railroad to carry freight over the Mississippi. The City of Minneapolis acquired this bridge in 1986 and converted the bridge to a pedestrian use bridge in 1999. The bridge currently provides a Mississippi River crossing for the Dinkytown Greenway bike trail.

Latest project news

2025 Construction Phase

Public Works has been working on this bridge in phases over the past few years, starting with the substructure work (piers and abutments). In 2025, the scope of work will focus on the superstructure, which includes removing and replacing the approach span decks, replacing the existing railing with a high-safety railing and rehabilitating the east side abutment.

To complete this work, the bridge will be closed from April 7, 2025, to December 2025.

Stay Connected!

For more details and to sign up for email updates please visit the project page:
www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/bridge-9/

For concerns or questions about the Bridge 9 project please contact:

Contact the project engineer: Petru Vizoli,
612-201-1905, or Petru.Vizoli@minneapolismn.gov.

Contact the engineer: Oscar Weber,
651-470-4790 or Oscar.Weber@minneapolismn.gov 

Contact the design team project manager: Rich Revering,
612-718-8412 or Richard.Revering@Bolton-Menk.com

The Dog That Howled at the Moon by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

I was out before sunrise on March 16th taking photographs of the moon over downtown Minneapolis. Sunrise and Moonset were closer together than the days before, so I was able to get more detail in the foreground but at the same time the moon does not have as much detail because of the bright sky. As the moon descended it was making its way to land on top of Centre Village apartments. At the same time the smoke from the downtown steam energy plant was billowing in the wind. I was concerned it would hide the moon. In this image the wind blew the smoke into the shape of a dog looking directly up at the moon. In a photo a few shots later, the moon is on top of the "dogs" head. It almost looks like that famous dog created by cartonist and creator Charles Schulz. It was REALLY cold this morning and I almost called it quits before the moon totally set below Centre Village. I am glad I did not as I was able to snap a shot of the moon directly on top of that building.

You can see more of my work at ricrosowphotography.com and www.pricekrishnanartgallery.com. This photograph and others on my website are available for purchase either from my website or by contacting me directly.

The Moon and Capella by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

The Moon and Capella 

It was a Full Moon this morning (March 14) under clear skies. I setup on a balcony facing downtown and started shooting immediately as the moon was getting very close to Capella. In fact this is the first photograph I took this morning. This image is one photograph that I processed twice. I created a duplicate layer and processed the original for the moon and the duplicate layer for the rest of the image. I then manually blended the two layers together. It did not take long for the moon to slip out sight behind Capella as it was making its way to set below the horizon. But to my delight, as the moon exited from behind Capella it was well above the Wells Fargo Building and in between Capella and the Wells Fargo Building.

You can see more of my work at ricrosowphotography.com and PriceKrishnanGallery. 

Lettice and Lovage opens at Theatre in the Round April 4

Lettice & Lovage runs April 4-27, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30p, Sundays at 2p

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) is presenting Lettice and Lovage as the sixth production of their 73rd Season. Filled with larger-than-life characters, Peter Shaffer (Amadeus, Black Comedy, Equus) explores the value of truth and beauty in this witty and charming British comedy.

Originally written as a star vehicle for Dame Maggie Smith, this play famously features two actresses “of a certain age” in the leading roles. Lettice Duffet (an expert on Elizabethan cuisine, enthusiast of medieval weaponry and lover of history) serves as the ever flamboyant tour guide at Fustian House. Lotte Schoen (lover of rules and keeper of order) is the straightlaced inspector from the Preservation Trust. When Lettice theatrically “embellishes” the historical past of Fustian House, Schoen calls her into her office…which triggers an unlikely beginning to an unlikely friendship.

In a testament to friendship that spills from the stage to real life, this production is sponsored by Linda Sue Anderson in memory of Maggie Bearmon Pister. Pistner played “Lettice” in TRP’s 2001 production of this script, with Anderson playing opposite of her. Pistner was a prolific actor on Twin Cities stages and passed away in 2023.

Duck Washington directs the eight-member cast with stage management by Jessie Fanshaw, set design by Cory Skold, costumes by CJ Mantel, lighting by Mark Kieffer, props by Robert Smith, and sound design by Anita Kelling.

More info and Tickets. Audio-Described performance on

Theatre in the Round’s facilities are accessible for audience members using wheelchairs. Assisted listening and individual captioning devices are available for check-out. For questions about access services, please email tix@theatreintheround.org or call the box office at 612-333-3010.

Nicollet Island Inn Announces 2025 Bourbon Buyout, March 20

A Special Whiskey-Lovers Tasting Event!

The Bourbon Buyout returns to the Nicollet Island Inn March 20 at 5pm. The Inn will be shut down for the night to welcome whiskey-lovers for a tasting event including an impressive collection of rare and allocated whiskeys and bourbons.

More Info and Reservations

 

Guests will enjoy tasting pours from labels and vintages that aren’t available at any other Twin Cities venue, expertly paired with cuisine crafted to complement every delicious note and flavor accent.

 

Complimentary beer and wine will be available throughout the evening as well as run-of-the-bar selections to cleanse your palette between premium tastings. Throughout the evening there will be random drawings and giveaways of selected bottles and merchandise!

 

Worried about being in a room full of premium bourbon and then having to drive home? No problem - a limited number of guest rooms are available so you can celebrate with vigor until you fall into bed without ever having to leave the property. More details will be available in the confirmation email you will receive after tour purchase.

 

Tickets for this special are only available by advance-purchase and include:

 

• 12 1/2oz liquor pours, including 4 rare/allocated pours and 8 run-of-the-bar pours
• Chef’s buffet (unlimited); buffet service, dishes paired with whiskey selections
• Select beer and wine available through the evening (unlimited)

 

NOTE:  At checkout, a service charge (20%), SST fee (5%, to help cover sick and safe time for our staff) and applicable taxes and credit card processing fees will be applied. 

Garden Art Fling at the Flux Arts Building, April 5

Explore the vital role of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators through science education, art and connect with the community as we celebrate the beauty of blooms and nature.

Join the Garden Art Fling at The Flux on April 5th from 10a-6p at the Flux Arts Building and Art to Change the World (ACW) headquarters, 699 NE Lowry Avenue. This vibrant event will showcase a lively mix of music, story telling, and art vendors, including an art show featuring 8 x 8 artistic creations from ACW members, all available for purchase.

There will be several hands-on activities including mosaic stepping stones at Clay Squared to Infinity, “Butterfly Baths” at the Clay Squared Gallery and “Pollinator Palaces” at the ACW headquarters.

Pollinators are essential to the world’s food and flowers, and their importance reminds us of how we too are better together. This event is a powerful reminder of how nature and the arts come together to inspire! 

The event includes: 

• Scavenger Hunt (how many fairy doors, make laminated fairy bookmarks)
• Build You Own Bee Palace
• Pollinator Kiosk
• Photos with Butterfly wings made of bottle caps by Kelly Frankenberg
• Pollinator Mini Show (8 x 8 paintings) 

Gamut Gallery Announces Refracted Ecologies, Opening March 21

Refracted Ecologies is the curatorial debut of Gamut Gallery Co-Owner Kasi Aten

Free opening reception at Gamut Gallery on Friday, March 21, 7-10p, featuring music by DJ Butaca

Refracted Ecologies - Nature bends, light refracts, and perception warps in Refracted Ecologies, a group exhibition exploring the fluid boundaries between the tangible and the ephemeral. The curatorial debut of Gamut Gallery Co-Owner Kasi Aten, this show brings together 11 local artists working in painting, fiber arts, glass sculpture, and mixed media. Timed to infuse the season with a burst of color, play, and connection, Refracted Ecologies invites viewers to experience the beauty of distortion, abstraction, and organic transformation.

Featured Artists: Emily McBride, Gabrielle Raye Cordes, Jeff Sorensen, Kathryn Flora, Kelli Nelson, Lili Lennox, Lindsey Ries, Nick Motter, Sage Phillips, Sander Kolodziej, Sophie Sigel

At the heart of Refracted Ecologies is an exploration of how natural landscapes, organic structures, and sensory distortions shape our experience of the world. This exhibition blurs the line between reality and abstraction. Lindsey Ries’ pixelated landscapes break nature into fragmented color fields, while Sander Kolodziej’s biomorphic forms evoke the microscopic worlds hidden around us. Gabrielle Raye Cordes' fiber pieces weave together textures, creating tactile landscapes, while Jeff Sorensen’s sculptures will have you seeing the show from another angle - literally!

Curated by Gamut Gallery Co-Owner Kasi Aten, Refracted Ecologies showcases her distinct vision and curatorial debut. As a vital, creative and organizational force behind the gallery, Kasi brings her keen eye to the forefront, shaping an exhibition that is immersive and dynamic. The featured works highlight the delicate balance between structure and fluidity, inviting viewers to engage with the natural world in new and unexpected ways.

Timed intentionally for this season, the show offers a much-needed infusion of color, playfulness and connection.

*  *  *  *  *  Exhibition Details  *  *  *  *  * 

Public Opening Night - Friday, March 21, 7-10p, DJ Butaca, FREE 

Figure Drawing Class with Guest facilitator Patrizia Vignola - Saturday, April 5, 4-6p, $10 tickets for Members & $20 tickets for Non-members 

Exhibit Inspired Floral Art - Saturday, April 12, 2-4p, $50 tickets, 

Top Secret pop-up event - Saturday, April 19

*   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   * 

Visit for FREE during open hours: Thursday - Friday, 11a-6p; Saturday 11a-4p (Closed on exhibit opening.) day

Want to become a Gamut Gallery Member? As a Gamut Gallery member, you receive free admission to all exhibition openings, artist talks, and invitations to preview events, such as VIP access to Artists Preview Nights, the annual Raging Art On holiday marketplace. Gallery members are committed to the local art scene and we celebrate them bi-annually with a Spring Celebration and our black-tie Member’s Gala in the fall. Learn more about the year-long perks of gallery membership.

MSP Film Society Announce Lineup for the 44th Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF44), April 2-13

MSP Film Society has unveiled the lineup for the 44th Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF44), which returns April 2-13 to The Main Cinema, the Capri Theater, Landmark Center in St. Paul, and their newest venue, the Edina Mann Theatre. The MSPIFF44 lineup features more than 200 films from around the world!

One of the largest and longest-running film festivals in the country, MSPIFF44 presents a dynamic slate of international cinematic gems and deeply impactful films. It kicks off on April 2nd with the Opening Night Presentation: Free Leonard Peltier, which recently premiered at Sundance just seven days after Mr. Peltier was granted clemency after being imprisoned for nearly 50 years. MSP Film Society will host Director Jesse Short Bull and Producer Jhane Meyers for a special MSPIFF Opening Night, and partner with Owamni for the MSPIFF44 Opening Night Party that follows.

MSPIFF44 will welcome Director Ang Lee for the MILGROM TRIBUTE and to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Brokeback Mountain, produced by Minnesota’s own Bill Pohlad and River Road Productions. Events include a Filmmaker Conversation with Ang Lee and a special screening of Brokeback Mountain on Sunday, April 6.

MSPIFF44 will presents an array of parties, panels and tributes to celebrate visiting filmmakers and special guests, including a full day of film industry panels on April 5, presented with UMFO (Upper Midwest Film Office), additional panels throughout the fest to focus on everything from intimacy coordinators and festival skills and strategies, several live performances, and a special appearance by international opera star Frederica von Stade, subject of the film Flicka.

The MSPIFF44 lineup of films can now be viewed here. The MSPIFF44 Schedule will be unveiled mid-March with a a two-day presale window for MSP Film Members and MSPIFF Passholders. Tickets for the General Public will go on sale 2 days later. Become an MSP Film member or renew your MSP Film membership or buy an MSPIFF All Access Pass now to ensure your access to all the films and special events you want to see.

● Tickets to regular MSPIFF44 screenings - $11 for Members / $17 for General Public / $10 for Students

● MSPIFF43 All-Access Passes - $550 for Members / $800 for General Public / $75 for Students

● MSPIFF43 Six Packs* - $55 for Members / $85 for General Public / $30 for Students

*can be shared with family and friends!

MSPIFF is presented by the MSP Film Society, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to fostering a knowledgeable and vibrant appreciation of the art of film and its power to inform and transform individuals and communities. 

Miller Lite Continues to Sponsor Free Rides on St. Patrick’s Day

Visit the Metro Transit website to review transit routes and make plans for a free ride this St. Patrick’s Day weekend. 

For those celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in the Twin Cities, Molson Coors is once again partnering with Metro Transit to activate the Miller Lite Free Rides program. Minneapolitans will have access to fare-free public transportation from 6pm on Monday, March 17 until the end of regular service on all routes, as well as on all METRO bus and light rail, with extended service in the downtown area.

Miller Lite’s Free Rides program, which began in Milwaukee in 1988, has offered public transit to residents for almost four decades, underscoring Molson Coors’ commitment to promoting responsible celebrations and serving its hometown communities. Since its inception, more than 9 million rides have been provided nationwide.

St. Patrick’s Day Free Rides kicks off the 2025 program, which will extend nationwide during other major holidays and sporting events throughout the year. In 2024, Molson Coors partnered with local transit in 10 cities to provide fare-free rides on four different occasions. Last year, the program provided over 25,000 rides in the Twin Cities area alone.

To help increase access to free rides on St. Patrick’s Day, Metro Transit has also partnered with the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), to provide transportation in the southern portion of the Twin Cities.

“For everyone celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in the Twin Cities, we are pleased to offer free rides again this year,” said Lesley Kandaras, general manager, Metro Transit. “Getting to your destination safely has never been easier. Simply hop on and enjoy a free ride courtesy of Miller Lite.”

Culinary Icons Share Stories & Recipes in Chef Gavin Kaysen's New Book, The Synergy Series

Copies of The Synergy Series can be pre-ordered on GavinKaysen.com starting on March 5. Books will begin shipping on April 29

James Beard Award-winning Chef Gavin Kaysen has announced the Spring 2025 release of his second self-published book, The Synergy Series, offering unprecedented access to a compilation of the personal stories, philosophies, and recipes of 25 of America's most influential chefs.

The book emerges from an innovative dinner series by the same name, which Kaysen launched in 2016 at Spoon and Stable. In the past 10 years, The Synergy Series events have raised over $300,000 for a variety of local and national charitable causes. Through stunning photography, intimate narratives, and distinctive recipes, the book aims to inspire culinary professionals and food enthusiasts while supporting the next generation of cooks in America. All proceeds from the sale of “The Synergy Series” book will benefit Ment'or, a nonprofit organization devoted to inspiring culinary excellence in young professionals.

Featured chefs include:

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April Bloomfield, Christopher Kostow, Curtis Stone, Daniel Boulud, Daniel Humm, Daniela Soto-Innes, Dominique Crenn, Grant Achatz, James Kent, Jeremy Fox, John Shields, Jon Shook & Vinny Dotolo, Kristen Kish, Ludo Lefebvre, Marcus Samuelsson, Mei Lin, Michael Anthony, Michael Solomonov, Michael White, Missy Robbins, Nancy Silverton, Sean Brock, Thomas Keller, and Traci Des Jardins.

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The 224-page book, with photography by renowned food photographer Bonjwing Lee and Libby Anderson, demonstrates how Minneapolis-based restaurant Spoon and Stable has become a hub for national influence outside traditional food capitals while establishing a successful model for chef collaboration and charitable giving. Each chapter is dedicated to one chef and combines three elements: stories of the chef's dinner at Spoon and Stable; a recipe from the chef; and either a letter from or about the chef. Some chapters include a transcript from "Dialogue," a companion event to The Synergy Series dinners in recent years. Born from the recognition that the most valuable conversations often happen after service, Dialogue has served as a forum for The Synergy Series chefs' most candid conversations. Moderated by leadership coach Alison Arth, and held for an intimate audience in Minneapolis, Dialogues have served as a forum for the participating chefs to share stories of their struggles, triumphs, and hopes for the future of their profession in ways rarely captured outside of the kitchen.

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"Every day since I joined Daniel's team, he has demonstrated how life-changing it is to have a mentor like him by my side," Kaysen writes of his own mentor, Daniel Boulud. "I now know that both having a mentor and being a mentor should be a two-way street." This spirit of reciprocal mentorship threads throughout the book, as typically private industry leaders share their insights and journeys.

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Select anecdotes from the book include:

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Chef Daniel Humm reveals how reaching the pinnacle of success—having Eleven Madison Park named "Best Restaurant in the World"—led to deeper questions about purpose and meaning. 

Chef Nancy Silverton reflects on the importance of leadership saying, "In working with so many wonderful chefs, I got to observe and learn what makes a successful kitchen. I quickly discovered that a healthy culture, one of respect and one that nurtures growth, starts at the top."

Chef Grant Achatz reflects on the spirit of connection and collaboration: "When surrounded by a team of diverse talent, with each member bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the table, the potential for creativity and innovation is pretty boundless. [And,] in the exchange of ideas and the clash of creative energies, that's where magic happens." 

Chef Daniela Soto-Innes emphasizes the importance of maintaining perspective in the demanding world of restaurants: "I am convinced that if you aren't ok, you shouldn't act like you are. Ask for help and help others when they ask."

Chef Missy Robbins reflects on her evolution as a chef: "Initiative and self-motivation are important, but having good mentors along the way was essential to my development and progress as a chef."

Chef Daniel Boulud emphasizes the importance of generosity in the culinary world: "We've discussed the importance of generosity in the culinary world and the value of sharing knowledge and experience."

A letter from Kelly Kent, the principal partner of Kent Hospitality Group and wife of the late Chef James Kent, who reflects on the impact and legacy of James for his family and community. She shares, “Making people feel included was Jamal’s gift in life. [...] As you will doubtlessly discover by reading the other chapters of this book, the restaurant industry, at its best, is one big family. Everyone in it works hard to take care of others, and in return, when they need it, others work hard to take care of them.” 

New Exhibition at Kolman & Reeb Gallery, 𝘼𝙇𝙊𝙁𝙏, opens March 8

ALOFT: Paintings by Andrew Wykes - A Kolman & Reeb Gallery Project Space Exhibition, March 8 – May 3, 2025

Artist Reception: Saturday, March 22, 6:00p–8p

Artist Talk: Saturday, April 5, 2p–3:30p

This March, the Kolman & Reeb Gallery will present Aloft, featuring a stunning collection of conceptual paintings by contemporary abstract artist, Andrew Wykes. By combining extreme aerial viewpoints taken by a drone with images from our everyday point of view, Wykes’ paintings manipulate and challenge our understanding of the traditional landscape.

Driven by curiosity to explore alternative perspectives with an innovative approach, Wykes merges radical ideas about perspective, light, and depth to investigate how scale, space, and surface patterns can transform a painting’s structure.

With a passion for construction, Wykes’ embraces the romantic, sometimes "unnerving" experience of working plein air. On location, he works quickly to capture the experience of a place and time, following a simple philosophy: once a color is placed on the canvas, it is complete - no further editing is required. That pace needed to swiftly make this work reflects a need to measure and sketch the light, using both composition and space as essential tools.

Later, in his studio, Wykes uses photos and these quick line sketches to further translate that three-dimensional landscape to create compositions that both maintain abstraction and are deeply rooted in that traditional notion of place.

In his works for Aloft gallery patrons will also see that while some of his chosen hues don’t exist in nature, Wykes uses them to breathe life into the images, allowing extreme and vibrant colors to have meaning and purpose. His process begins by using bold reds and striking greens to sketch skeletal lines that form the foundation of each piece. As layers of true-to-life colors build, traces of these original marks continue to peek through, adding depth, intrigue, and a sense of mystery to the final composition.

"Andrew’s work beautifully captures the many seasons and notable places of both Northfield, Minnesota and Ireland. With these plein air paintings, he's able to summon the feeling of the moment and location. The highly edited mark- making and his bold palette fit well with the gallery's contemporary style." Jodi Reeb, gallery curator and co-partner

Andrew Wykes is a British-born painter whose work explores the balance between intellect and emotion, blending figuration and abstraction. His landscapes, created on-site and in the studio, capture the fluidity of place and self. Influenced by artists like Constable, Hitchens, and Lanyon, he works in oil, acrylic, tempera, and collage to translate three-dimensional landscapes onto canvas. Andrew studied fine art at Richmond upon Thames College, Epsom School of Art and Design, and earned his MFA from American University in Washington, DC. With 40 years of teaching experience across the UK, Belgium, and the US, he is an Emeritus Professor of Painting at Hamline University. His work has been exhibited internationally, including in London and New York.

The Great River Coalition's April 19 Earth Day Supports Efforts to Protect Pollinators and Their Habitat

Saturday, April 19, 9am - 12pm, Boom Island Park,         724 Sibley Street NE

Event features a family and dog-friendly fun run/walk, river cleanup, and Earth Day festivities.  

Since 2016, the Great River Coalition has been raising funds for pollinator plantings along the Mississippi River and building awareness about the importance of protecting and saving our pollinators due to climate and environmental changes. Native pollinators, including the federally endangered Rusty Patched Bumblebee and other wild bees, continue to desperately need our help.

Rusty Patched BumblebeeThe Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup is hosted by the Great River Coalition, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the National Park Service, and Mill City Running/Saint City Running.

The 5K course traverses through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area—the only national park offering scenic views of the Mississippi River. Following the 5K, participants will be able to take part in an organized river cleanup and enjoy festivities including live music and entertainment, prizes, games for kids, Pre Race Kids Run, educational activities, and more. Photo ops will include a bee-themed selfie station, notable appearances, and mascots.

Bee and pollinator-themed costumes are encouraged! Prizes for the best costumes will be awarded. All are encouraged to participate in the event to help save our bees and other important pollinators.

“Great River Coalition is working to expand the habitat for our pollinators,” said Board President Diane Hofstede. “If you walk along our Minneapolis riverfront, or travel around the state, you’ll see the limited food resources that sustain our pollinators as they travel along the Mississippi River. The erosion created by the lack of grasslands contributes to soil and water pollution and encourages invasive species. The Rusty Patch Bumblebee, Minnesota’s state bumblebee, is critically endangered. We aim to bring awareness to the vital role pollinators play in the health of our riverfront communities, our state, and our planet.”

Event Details:

The cost is $40 in advance, $45 on Race Day. Free for kids’ race (ages 6 and under) and River Clean Up. Includes family-friendly activities and a celebration of Earth Day.The 5K will start at 9am. The kid’s race, with goodie bags, will begin at 8:30am - children must be age 6 or under and must be registered before the event, either online or in-person with registration of walker or runner. The River Clean Up begins at 9:30am. Volunteers register online before the event.

Registration: https://register.chronotrack.com/r/81795

The Great River Coalition is comprised of change agents and advocates for policies and initiatives that honor the historic, commercial, environmental, and spiritual significance of the Mississippi River. To carry out its mission, the Great River Coalition collaborates with local businesses, organizations, and government agencies to engage, educate, and plant pollinator plantings in our communities. For 10 years the Earth Day 5K Bee Run Walk and River Clean Up has brought thousands of people, built awareness, education and interaction with our Mississippi Riverfront partners, local and National groups. Great River Coalition members and partners take action by testifying at public hearings, publishing impactful comments about riverfront impacts, and building relationships. As a member-supported 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, the Great River Coalition relies wholly on support from members, donors, volunteers, and sponsors. Learn more at greatrivercoalition.com. Follow on Facebook and Instagram

Race route:

Graco Park Update

Via a February 21 update from Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board

The River Hub at Graco Park in October 2024

Plymouth Avenue Bridge closes April 21-August 22 to build trail connection to Boom Island Park

New park building named The River Hub at Graco Park opens this spring

The next phases of Graco Park hit big milestones this spring! The new nine-acre Northeast Minneapolis riverfront park will debut a 4,000-square-foot park building named “The River Hub at Graco Park” this spring and open a new trail connection under Plymouth Avenue to Boom Island Park in the fall.

Construction is already underway on the trail connection, which will close Plymouth Avenue Bridge for four months beginning April 21, 2025.

The River Hub at Graco Park

The River Hub at Graco Park is expected to open by the end of April. Its address is 810 Sibley St. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413. Hours will be Wednesday-Friday, 3-8:30 pm; Saturday-Sunday, 12-6 pm.

The River Hub is designed as a place for people to enjoy and appreciate the Mississippi River, with opportunities for environmental education, art and technology programs, and performances and events supporting the local arts community. Building features include a Spark’d Studios location, the Riverview Room, which can accommodate 50-150 people with large doors opening toward the Mississippi River, a conference room that can accommodate up to eight people, a welcome lobby, and public restrooms.

The building is considered “Net Zero,” which is an ultra-low energy structure that consumes only as much power as can be generated onsite by clean, renewable resources. This is achieved through an energy efficient design, rooftop solar panels, and geothermal energy system. All windows have a reflective coating to reduce bird-glass collisions in the Mississippi Flyway.

A Grand Opening event is planned this spring! More information on that will be shared once details are finalized.

Youth experiement with green screen video technology at Whittier Park Spark'd Studios

Spark’d Studios at Graco Park

Spark’d Studios are new spaces in Minneapolis park buildings that help young people build creative skills and career readiness through free multimedia arts programs, access to technology, and mentorship from creative professionals. The River Hub will host the fourth of six planned Spark’d Studios locations.

Spark’d Studios at Graco Park will offer an exciting array of top-of-the-line creative equipment: 

• Recording booth for audio projects and music production
• Laser cutter and engraver
• 3D printer
• Video and photography equipment
• Mac laptop and desktop computers with creative design software
• Gaming station for multi-player tournaments
• Crafting area for hands-on STEAM and mixed media projects

Follow Spark’d Studios on Instagram or YouTube to learn about upcoming programs and view youth-directed projects!

An illustration shows a new bridge over the Boom Island Marina heading north into a trail underpass connecting to Graco Park

Boom Island Trail Connection 

Construction has begun on a trail connection between Graco Park and Boom Island Park under Plymouth Avenue. When this work is complete, people will be able to run, walk, or roll seamlessly on a completely off-road riverside trail that connects Sheridan Memorial Park, Graco Park, Boom Island Park and Nicollet Island. 

Plymouth Avenue Bridge will close on Monday, April 21, 2025, and is scheduled to remain closed through Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. City of Minneapolis Public Works will also perform bridge maintenance during this time. 

Safety improvements to the intersection of Plymouth Avenue and Sibley Street NE will be constructed as part of this project. Sidewalk bump-outs will narrow the distance to cross Plymouth Avenue and a flashing beacon will be added to alert vehicles to people crossing the street. 

At Boom Island Park, a new bridge will be built over the Boom Island Marina and paths will be realigned leading up to the underpass. The Boom Island Marina will be closed throughout 2025 to accommodate construction activities. People can launch watercraft on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis at North Mississippi Regional Park while the Boom Island Marina is closed. 

Graco Park Features

Graco Park opened in September 2024. The nine-acre park is located just north of the Plymouth Avenue Bridge, between Boom Island Park and Graco Inc. headquarters. It includes Hall’s Island, which was restored in 2018, plus new trails and walkways, a river landing, large, artistic “Timber Markers” that pay homage to the site’s storied logging history, picnic tables, and gathering spaces surrounded by hundreds of new trees and plants.

In 2018, the MPRB reached a series of agreements with Graco Inc. that resulted in Graco Park. The agreements allowed the park to be constructed much earlier than it could have through traditional park funding mechanisms.

The Scherer Bros Lumber Co property shortly after it was purchased by the MPRB in 2010

Site History

2010: The MPRB purchased the 11-acre riverfront site from Scherer Bros Lumber Co. The former lumberyard was cleaned up and industrial buildings and asphalt were replaced with grass over the next few years. 

2016: The Mississippi East Bank Trail was paved through the site. This riverfront trail extension connects Boom Island Park, Graco Park and Sheridan Memorial Park before terminating at the BNSF railroad bridge, in the 1600 block of Marshall Street NE. 

2017-18: A project restored Hall's Island, which was eliminated by lumber yard expansion in the 1960s, and created a new gravel river beach. 

2018: The MPRB and Graco Inc. reached several agreements that resulted in Graco Park. 

2021: MPRB staff collected feedback from the community, researched opportunities and constraints at the site and created a series of Graco Park design concepts for public feedback. 

April 2022: The final park concept was approved by MPRB Commissioners after a public hearing. 

September 2022: Grading and earthwork began to prepare site for park construction. 

August 2023: A groundbreaking ceremony commemorated the beginning of park construction. 

September 2024: The outdoor elements of the park opened to the public. 

Winter 2024-25: Construction began on a trail underpass connecting Graco Park and Boom Island Park. 

Spring 2025: The River Hub at Graco Park opens. 

Fall 2025: A trail underpass connecting Graco Park and Boom Island Park is scheduled to open.

Moon, Venus and Capella by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

A View of the Moon, Venus and Capella from the Mill City District

This is a composite of two photographs taken seconds apart. The Moon and Venus were on opposite sides of Capella. I zoomed in on Capella to see whether either would remain in the frame. Venus remained visible but the Moon did not. To get both in the same image I zoomed out for a much wider view. That, however, did nothing to highlight Capella, as the Moon was very small and Venus was hardly visible. So I zoomed in on the Moon and took that shot. Then I rotated the camera  and adjusted the focal length to capture as much of Capella as possible while keeping Venus in the composition.

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In post-processing I blended the two layers together to reveal the Moon in the layer with Capella and Venus. Next I colorized the Capella building’s exterior with colors that were present in the image to a much smaller extent. AI was not used to create the scene, just my NI (native intelligence). I’ve printed this photograph on cotton so that it can be framed and hung on a wall or used as a table runner. The Fireworks artist in our Price Krishnan Gallery saw the table runner version and ordered the image to be printed on aluminum. Given the colorful art she creates using only fireworks, I am not surprised she likes this colorful work of art.

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You can see more of my work at ricrosowphotography.com and pricekrishnangallery.com.

Register Now to Save $5 off the April 19 Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk!

Great River Coalition has announced their 10th Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup at Boom Island Park, and to show you a little love they are offering $5 off of registration when you use the code BEEMINE25. Register here: https://register.chronotrack.com/r/81795.

This is a family-friendly event hosted by:

• Great River Coalition

• Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board 

• The National Park Service

• Mill City Running/St. City Running

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Dogs are welcome, costumes are welcome (prizes for the best - name your team!). Help save our bees and pollinators and their habitat by participating in this national movement!

Puppy Cuddle Time at the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center, Feb 13

The Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center invites the public to a special Puppy Cuddle featuring adorable, adoptable puppies from a local animal rescue organization. From 11:30am to 1pm on Thursday, February 13, attendees can enjoy stress-relieving cuddles, learn about adoption opportunities, and support a great cause. A $5 donation is suggested to support Healing Hearts Rescue. Cash, credit and Venmo accepted, with 100% of donations going to Healing Hearts Rescue.

The Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center is located at 505 Nicollet Mall, Suite 100, directly across from the Nicollet Light Rail Station.

Healing Hearts Rescue is a volunteer-based nonprofit dog rescue dedicated to changing the lives of animals whom humans have failed by finding them safe and loving homes.

 

Minneapolis Premiere of “This Is Not A Dream” at Ukrainian American Feb 14-15 Community Center

Nine plays present a variety of views into the daily life of people in or from Ukraine today

The Lex-Ham Community Theater of St. Paul, in partnership with the Ukrainian American Community Center, will be presenting a staged reading of "This Is Not A Dream" – a set of short plays written by nine contemporary playwrights from Ukraine about their life during the current Russian invasion and war there. 

The playwrights, known as Young Playwrights Ukraine, founded by New York-based writer Laura Cahill, are young authors - some of whom are still in Ukraine, while others are displaced.

The authors include Anna Brovarna, Anastasia Chala, Taya Fedorrenko, Luka Ivanov, Uliana Klimchuk, Tanya Kostyniuk, Asia Psenychna, Sasha Sereda, and Karina Syrota. The plays were written during a mentorship project started in April 2023. Professional writers and directors worked with the young writers over Zoom for five months. Directed by Sara Skar.

Performances will take place at Ukrainian American Community Center, 301 NE Main Street on Friday, February 14, 7:00pm and Saturday, February 15, 2:00pm.

Tickets - More info - Questions: info@uaccmn.org

*  *  * Synopsis of the plays *  *  *

Superhero: A Ukrainian college students visits the parents of her college roommate in North Carolina

Candies, Wedding, Bones: A young woman visits the cemetery where her grandmother is buried.  A young man trying to sell wedding dresses encounters her.

Perfect Material: A college film school student who’s been out of Ukraine comes home to make a documentary by talking with her father about his experience fighting the war.

Dnipro: A college student returns to Dnipro to visit her aging and increasingly forgetful grandmother.

The Sea: A couple attempting to escape Ukraine to live in Cyprus use the wife’s mother as a means to escape

Proof of Love: Two young students are held at the police station for taking photos of railroad tracks.

Ruins: A young woman returns to her burnt-out home and encounters her younger much-more-innocent self.

The Old Couple: An elderly couple have left Ukraine and now live in Vienna and discuss the pros and cons of returning to Ukraine.

The Orchid: A doctor and her retired husband living in Ukraine listen to the news of the day on the television while discussing the state of the husband’s orchid.

Performing Arts are a means to preserving and perpetuating Ukrainian Culture and Identity from tyrants set upon the destruction of an entire nation.